There is a good chance Rimbey Aquatic Centre will open May 24 but it’s not written in stone.
“Our goal right now is to have the pool open on Friday, May 24 after school. That being said, issues with maintenance and staffing may push it back one additional week,” said Peter Stenstrom, director of community services.
Stenstrom said more lifeguards are needed for the aquatic centre, a problem that seems to be prevalent in many Alberta communities.
“There is a shortage of lifeguards all over,” he said. “Communities are battling for a limited resource.”
Stenstrom encourages young people to consider training to become a lifeguard.
“It’s a great job. It’s exciting. It’s fun and there will always be a job for you,” he said.
Aquatic centre manager Kira More said she can teach bronze medallion and bronze cross courses necessary to become a lifeguard. Other courses needed are available as various locations in central Alberta.
More, who also managed the aquatic centre last year, said she is glad to be back.
“I’m excited,” she said. “We’re hoping to offer a couple of new activities this year. We have a toonie Tuesday swim and the Value Drug Mart swim will be held Thursdays. We also have a couple new aquafit programs going on.”